International Driving Permit

Only RACV and constituent members of the AAA (Australian Automobile Association) are authorised to issue International Driving Permits. To obtain an IDP you can apply online or in person at your nearest RACV Retail Store.

Apply online:

• Visit www.internationaldrivingpermit.com.au to apply for an IDP online
• Provide a recent passport size and style photo file
• Provide a scan of the front and back of your current, unrestricted Australian Drivers Licence
• Provide a form of online payment
• Further details can be found at www.internationaldrivingpermit.com.au

Apply in person (for urgent applications):

• Visit your nearest RACV Retail Stores
• Bring your current, unrestricted Australian Drivers Licence
• Provide a recent passport size and style photo*

*NOTE: Passport photos must be on photographic quality paper. Standard copy paper will not be accepted. Head shot cut outs from 'other' photos will not be accepted. IDP photos are available for purchase at selected RACV Retail Stores.

If you are already overseas:

• please apply for an IDP online by visiting:
• www.internationaldrivingpermit.com.au.

If you are applying for or requesting the reissue of an International Driving Permit (IDP) from overseas:

• you are also required to provide proof that you are not a resident in the country from which you are making the application (e.g. copy of Australian passport)
• proof of travel plans to other countries (e.g. travel agent itinerary), and
• the date of your return to Australia (e.g. Visa).

• International Driving Permits (IDPs), also known as international driving licences, entitle the holder to drive in all counteracting countries without further examination. Check the International Driving Permit requirements of your destination before you travel.
• It is a requirement for renting a car in many countries. Failure to do so may constitute a criminal or civil offence and may have more serious consequences.
• It can trigger an exclusion under your travel insurance policy if claiming for loss caused while driving a motor vehicle overseas.
• It provides an additional form of photo ID if your passport is locked away in a safe place.
• In most cases, your current Australian driving licence is not enough alone when driving in a foreign country. It must be complemented with an International Driving Permit.
• A valid IDP permits you to drive in most foreign countries in case of an emergency under normal IDP conditions.

• Your IDP carries your identification details in nine languages (English, Spanish, Japanese, Greek, German, Arabic, Russian, Chinese, French) in case you need to communicate with foreign authorities.
• It is valid for 12 months from the date of issue unless the holder's domestic driving licence expires or is revoked in the meantime. IDPs cannot be post-dated under any circumstances.
• It is not a stand-alone document or substitute for a valid driving licence - it must be carried with your current domestic driving licence at all times.
• It in no way diminishes the obligation of the holder to conform strictly to the laws and regulations of the countries you visit.
• An International Driving Permit can only be issued to people over 18 years of age with a valid Australian licence (includes P-plate).
• It cannot be issued to learner driver permit holders.

An IDP costs $42. This does not include the added cost of postage if applicable.

Once you've completed your online application, please allow up to 10 business days for processing and postage. If you need an IDP in a hurry, head to your nearest RACV Retail Store where you’ll be issued with your permit instantly.